LOL everyone here giving different answers just shows how messed up the unemployment system is! I've been through 3 different claims and gotten 3 different outcomes from ESD for basically the same situation each time. It all depends which agent reviews your case and what mood they're in that day 🙄 But seriously, just make sure EVERYTHING is documented. Save emails, take screenshots, get the seasonal nature in writing. When your seasonal job ends, you might get put in adjudication anyway (I did), but if you have documentation you'll eventually get approved.

I'm in a similar boat - currently on partial UI while working part-time and considering a seasonal hospitality job for the summer. Reading through all these responses, it sounds like the key is really getting that documentation upfront and continuing to file weekly claims even when you're not receiving benefits. @Gabrielle - one thing I'd add is maybe ask your seasonal employer if they can specify in writing not just that it's seasonal, but also mention something like "position will end due to conclusion of tourist season" or whatever applies to your situation. That way it's crystal clear it's ending due to lack of work rather than any performance issues. Also, even though calling ESD is a nightmare, you might want to try the online messaging system through your eServices account. I've had better luck getting responses that way, though it can take a few days. At least you'll have their answer in writing if you do decide to take the seasonal position. Good luck with whatever you decide! That tour guide job sounds like it could be fun while you're job hunting for something permanent in marketing.

Seems like several people have had success with that. I'll keep it in mind if I run into issues.

Just wanted to add that if you're planning to rely on unemployment benefits for an extended period, it's worth understanding that Washington state also has some additional programs that might help supplement your income. There's the SharedWork program if you're dealing with reduced hours instead of full layoff, and various retraining programs through WorkSource that can extend benefits while you learn new skills. The key is to explore all your options early rather than waiting until your regular benefits run out. Also, keep detailed records of everything - pay stubs, employment dates, job search activities - because you'll need documentation for various parts of the process.

Just want to echo what others have said about Claimyr - I used them last month when I couldn't get through to Washington ESD about my adjudication issue. It really works and saved me hours of calling. Worth checking out their demo video if you're having trouble reaching an agent.

I went through something similar last year. The key thing to remember is that Washington ESD overpayment notices can look scarier than they actually are. In many cases, there are legitimate reasons for the determination that can be resolved once you understand what happened. The most important thing is to read the notice carefully to see if it specifies the reason for the overpayment - was it unreported wages, eligibility issues, or something else? Don't panic, but do act quickly since you only have 30 days to appeal if you disagree with their decision. I'd recommend calling them as soon as possible to get clarification on exactly what triggered the overpayment determination.

Hey Riya! I just went through this exact same situation a few months ago when I got laid off from my tech job. The advice you're getting here is spot on - definitely answer NO to the notice period question since severance is completely different. One thing I wish someone had told me early on: create a simple spreadsheet to track all your severance payments, dates received, and what you reported to ESD each week. It saved me so much headache when I had questions later. Also, if your severance payments are substantial like mine were, don't be surprised if you get $0 benefits for several weeks - that's totally normal and expected. The most important thing is to keep filing those weekly claims religiously, even when you're getting nothing. I made the mistake of skipping a few weeks thinking "what's the point if I'm getting $0" and it created issues when I tried to restart later. Just keep filing and everything will smooth out once your severance period ends in March!

I'm going through a similar situation right now after being laid off from my marketing job in September. Just wanted to add that when you're reporting your severance payments, make sure you're clear about whether they're taxable or not - this can affect how much gets deducted from your benefits. Also, if your company is providing any continuing benefits (like health insurance coverage) during your severance period, that doesn't need to be reported as income, but it's worth noting in case ESD asks about it later. One tip that helped me: I took a screenshot of each weekly claim submission showing exactly what I reported and when. It creates a paper trail in case there are any questions down the road. The whole process is stressful enough without worrying about documentation issues later! Good luck navigating this - it sounds like you're being really thorough about getting it right, which is exactly the right approach.

I'm in a similar situation and this thread has been incredibly helpful! I've been on Washington ESD unemployment for about 6 weeks after getting laid off from my marketing job in Tacoma, and I've been considering moving back to my hometown in Arizona to be closer to family and reduce living costs. Reading all these success stories is really reassuring - I was terrified that moving would somehow mess up my benefits or get me in trouble. It sounds like as long as I update my address, keep filing weekly claims, and continue job searching, I should be fine. The stress of trying to afford rent in Washington while unemployed has been overwhelming, so knowing I have options is such a relief. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences!

I moved from Seattle to Phoenix while collecting Washington unemployment benefits about 8 months ago and it was one of the best decisions I made during my job search. The process was incredibly straightforward - I just logged into my online account, updated my address, and continued filing my weekly claims as usual. Washington ESD never questioned it or gave me any issues. The cost of living difference was huge and really took the financial pressure off, which allowed me to be more selective about job opportunities instead of taking the first thing that came along out of desperation. Phoenix has a surprisingly strong tech scene too, and I actually found more networking events and job opportunities than I expected. The key is just being honest about everything - document your job searches in your new location, keep all your records, and don't try to game the system. I found work after about 3 months in Phoenix and the whole experience taught me that the unemployment system is more flexible and reasonable than the horror stories make it seem. Good luck with your move to Portland - it's a great city with lots of opportunities!